Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Pigment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽจ
Add to dictionary

pigment

[หˆpษชษกmษ™nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

art

A substance used for coloring or painting, especially a dry powder that is mixed with a liquid to produce paint.

Synonyms

colorant, dye, hue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
pigment

Use in a scientific or artistic context when referring to substances that provide color to other materials, such as in paints or biological tissues.

  • The painter mixed different pigments to get the perfect shade of green.
  • Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of human skin.
dye

Often associated with the process of adding color to materials, especially fabrics or hair, and can imply a more temporary or artificial addition of color.

  • She decided to dye her hair blue for the summer.
  • The workshop showed us how to dye fabrics using natural ingredients.
colorant

Commonly used in industrial or commercial contexts to describe substances that add color to products such as food, cosmetics, or textiles.

  • This brand of pasta uses natural colorants to achieve its vibrant color.
  • The company switched to synthetic colorants for their fabric dyes.
hue

Artistic or visual context, referring to the specific shade or tone of color perceived by the eye, often used to describe subtle variations or aesthetics.

  • The sunset cast a beautiful orange hue over the landscape.
  • Artists must have a keen eye for different hues to create compelling compositions.

Examples of usage

  • The artist mixed the pigment with water to create a vibrant blue paint.
  • The pigments used in the painting were all natural and sourced from plants and minerals.
Context #2 | Noun

biology

A substance that gives color to plant or animal tissues.

Synonyms

chroma, coloring, shade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
pigment

Typically used in scientific, artistic, or manufacturing contexts to describe substances that impart color to other materials.

  • The artist mixed different pigments to achieve the perfect color for his painting.
  • This natural pigment is extracted from plant sources.
coloring

Commonly used in everyday language to refer to the process or product of adding color, particularly in food, cosmetics, or art.

  • Food coloring was added to the cake batter to give it a vibrant look.
  • The coloring book kept the children entertained for hours.
chroma

Often used in the field of color theory or design to describe the purity or intensity of a color.

  • The chroma of the red is very vivid, making it stand out in the design.
  • Artists must consider the chroma to achieve the desired effect in their work.
shade

Used to describe a variation of a color, often by adding black or another dark hue, and commonly in everyday conversation or artistic settings.

  • She chose a lighter shade of blue for the bedroom walls.
  • Artists often play with different shades to create depth in their paintings.

Examples of usage

  • The pigment in the flower petals gives them their bright red color.
  • Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of human skin.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Pigments are found in all living organisms and are crucial in processes like photosynthesis in plants.
  • Different pigments absorb different light wavelengths, which is why we see various colors.
  • Some pigments are synthetic and are made in labs, commonly used in art and cosmetics.

Art

  • Natural pigments, like ochre, have been used since prehistoric times for cave paintings.
  • The invention of synthetic pigments in the 19th century revolutionized art, allowing for a broader color palette.
  • Artists often mix different pigments to create new shades and effects in their work.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, specific colors derived from natural pigments hold profound meanings, such as red symbolizing courage.
  • Pigments have been used in traditional rituals or art forms in various cultures, reflecting spiritual or social beliefs.
  • The use of certain colors in clothing and art can also indicate social status or cultural identity.

Health

  • Pigments in food, such as carotenoids in carrots, provide health benefits like improving vision.
  • Some pigments, like melanin, are produced in the body and play a crucial role in protecting skin from UV radiation.
  • Coloring agents in cosmetics often derive from natural pigments, contributing to beauty and skincare.

Origin of 'pigment'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pigmentum', meaning 'to paint'.
  • It has roots in the Old French term 'pigment', which also relates to coloring substances used in art.
  • The evolution of the word shows how closely it has been tied to both art and science over centuries.

The word 'pigment' originated from the Latin word 'pigmentum', which means 'coloring substance'. Pigments have been used by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to prehistoric times. Ancient civilizations used natural pigments derived from plants, minerals, and animal sources to create art, cosmetics, and decorative items. The development of synthetic pigments in the 19th century revolutionized the field of art and industry, leading to a wider range of colors and applications.

See also: pig, piggy, pigheaded, piglet, pigling, pigpen, pigsty.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,325 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.